Kaiser rolls originated in Germany, but today they're enjoyed by people all around the world. Kaiser rolls are ideal for hamburgers and other hot sandwiches with heavy, dense fillings. You can find kaiser rolls baked fresh at many local bakeries, but before you order a kaiser roll, you may want to know what makes it so special. Here are four things that give kaiser rolls their distinctive appearance, flavor, and texture:

1. Eggs

Every bread dough starts with flour, yeast, and water. Many bakers also add salt to their doughs for flavor. However, additional ingredients can be used to change the texture and flavor of the resulting bread. Kaiser rolls feature eggs to give them a soft interior and a beautiful, rich color. You may also find kaiser rolls made with milk, which can give the finished roll an even softer crumb.

2. Size

Kaiser rolls are smaller than many loaves of bread that you'll find at your local bakery. According to Cook's Info, kaiser rolls are typically between six to seven inches in diameter. These rolls are designed to be the perfect size for a single sandwich, but you can also enjoy a kaiser roll toasted and buttered or eaten fresh out of the bag. 

3. Shape

Kaiser rolls have a distinctive shape that makes them instantly recognizable. Like many other buns, kaiser rolls are round. What makes kaiser rolls unique is the pattern visible on their tops. This pattern is formed by carefully folding the dough into a flower shape. As the dough rises and bakes, this folded pattern becomes a distinctive spiral shape that is recognizable at a glance.

4. Toppings

Kaiser rolls are brushed with an egg wash or butter before they are placed in the oven to bake. This step allows kaiser rolls to gain their distinctive, beautiful, dark crust. Kaiser rolls are characterized by a crunchy exterior that perfectly contrasts with their dense, chewy centers. Many kaiser rolls are also sprinkled with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before they are baked. The addition of seeds can make kaiser rolls even more attractive while also providing extra flavor.

The next time you're planning a backyard barbecue, consider purchasing kaiser rolls to serve as your hamburger and hotdog buns. Kaiser rolls are excellent when they're fresh, and they can stay usable for several days when stored appropriately. You can keep your kaiser rolls in a cool, dark place until you need them.